ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa Promises Jobs for South Africans of All Ages, Citizens Question Pledge

• African National Congress President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed supporters at an eThekwini campaign event on 25 September
• Ramaphosa specifically mentioned employment for those aged over 35, a group often left out of youth-focused employment programmes
• South Africans on social media questioned whether the promises would be followed through after the elections, noting previous failed promises

Byron Pillay, a Briefly News journalist, has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political landscape, crime, and social issues. He worked as a newspaper journalist for 10 years before transitioning to online.

KWAZULU-NATAL — African National Congress President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged job creation for all South Africans, including those aged over 35, during a campaign appearance in eThekwini on 25 September 2026.

Speaking while on the campaign trail in eThekwini, Ramaphosa argued that foreign investment would not flow into South Africa unless the country demonstrated stability and economic opportunity.

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Ramaphosa's pledge to older job seekers

During his speech, Ramaphosa stressed that job creation efforts should not be limited to the 18-to-35 age bracket typically targeted by youth employment initiatives.

"We are not opening opportunities just for those 18 to 35. We are opening even for those above 35," Ramaphosa said.

He added that many South Africans older than 35 were actively seeking work and deserved equal access to economic opportunities. The address drew a visible response from the audience, with Ramaphosa speaking in a mix of English and isiZulu throughout the address.

Social media users react with scepticism

The footage circulated widely on social media and attracted sharp criticism, with many users questioning the sincerity of the pledges given the ANC's track record on employment.

Masila Nowushe Dikane sarcastically stated:

"Come on guys, maybe he has jobs hidden in his couch. Let's all go out and vote for them. They're begging us for another chance."

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Malum Tim raised the issue of repetition:

"But he said the same thing when campaigning for the 2024 National General Elections, mos. Or he forgets fast, bathung."

Tshepo Seeletso asked simply:

"Aren't they tired of this?"

Khathutshelo Khomola Munarini Manthakha wrote:

"For the past eight years, he has been working on it."

Buyisiwe Mngomezulu said:

"Seriously, when will black people realise that this president is making you fools? Still, you guys will go and vote for ANC."

Mpumzi Bavuma added:

"They're always working on it every time there are elections. Later, after elections, he will say ANC don't create job opportunities, and only private companies create job opportunities."

Other stories about promises made by Ramaphosa

• Ramaphosa vowed to hold ANC mayors and councillors accountable, or remove them from posts.
• Ramaphosa pledged that the Government of National Unity would endeavour to improve service delivery.
• Ramaphosa promised South Africans that the government would do everything in its power to reduce the cost of living.

Source: Briefly News